Saudi universities introduce double majors, minors in new educational initiative

In a significant stride towards educational innovation, a collaborative effort between multiple universities in the Kingdom and the Council of Universities’ Affairs has given birth to the Self-Designated Academic Degrees initiative.

This initiative, a cornerstone of the Human Capacity Development Program in various specialties, has been set into motion with the objective of aligning educational outcomes with the dynamic demands of the labor market.

Dr. Basam Al-Bassam, the Secretary-General of the Council, elucidated that the initiative is strategically designed to bolster the link between academic pursuits and industry requirements. Emphasizing the program’s role in elevating the readiness of the youth for employment, he highlighted its potential to enhance the efficiency of educational outputs.

Students, under this groundbreaking initiative, are granted the freedom to diversify their academic journeys by selecting multiple specialties that align with their interests and aspirations. Dr. Al-Bassam underscored the contribution of this approach to the enrichment of students’ knowledge and skills, ultimately augmenting their preparedness for seamless integration into the competitive labor market—a practice aligned with global educational standards.

Implemented models within this initiative include the introduction of minors and double majors in Saudi universities, among other phased models. This phased approach ensures a meticulous review, evaluation, and quality control process, aiming to align educational offerings with developmental requirements and the evolving needs of the labor market.

As the initiative takes root, notable institutions such as King Abdulaziz University, King Faisal University, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Al-Qassim University, and the Saudi Electronic University have taken the lead in the first phase of implementation. Their proactive engagement signifies a collective commitment to shaping a more dynamic and responsive educational landscape in Saudi Arabia.